Free Republic

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill has provoked furious dissent from MPs and Church leaders. Hybrid embryos The Bill permits the creation of hybrid or "chimera" embryos, where human DNA is inserted into an animal cell for research. Implanting them into a woman or animal will be forbidden and embryos must be discarded after use. Pro-life campaigners and Catholic leaders are bitterly opposed. Abortion The Bill has provisions to allow amendments to the Abortion Act 1967. MPs are expected to push for a reduction of the 24-week limit to 20. Embryo screening Embryos created in fertility treatment can be screened...

Europe's first fertility centre for lesbians and single women will open in London today for those seeking a "do-it-yourself" baby. The Women's New Life Centre will open in Harley Street to cater for the rising numbers of women looking to start a family without the help of a male partner. The clinic will open three months after Mannotincluded.com became the world's first internet site dedicated to helping lesbians find a sperm donor. More than 3,000 couples have registered with the site, which claims it now has 5,000 potential donors on its books. Many of the men offering to donate their...